We are faced with so much uncertainty in life - an unexpected illness, a loss, a crisis. He hasn't promised us perfection in this sinful world. There is always the possibility that we will face heartache and suffering. The only thing we can count on is God's steadfast presence with us. The knowledge that he is always there, no matter what happens, is our constant comfort.
He tells us, "Be of good cheer, for I have faced it all and have overcome it all by my spirit and I give that spirit to you." He overcame the world. What should I fear? We need not fear change or suffering or an unexpected crisis of health or life because we know that God has already seen it.
In the midst of sorrow and sadness, pain or suffering, let us ask for a consciousness of his abiding presence to cheer and to guide us. Great is his faithfulness. No matter what happens he is there to help us. This is his promise, "I will be with you always even to the end of time." (Mt. 28.20)
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 (NLT)
Abide with Me
Abide with me - fast the eventide!
The darkness deepens - Lord, with me abide;
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless,
O abide with me!
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day,
Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see -
O Thou who changest not, abide with me!
I need Thy presence every passing hour -
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be?
Thru cloud and sunshine,
O, abide with me!
I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless,
Ills have no weight and tears no bitterness;
Where is death's sting? where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still if thou abide with me!
Hold Thou Thy Word before my closing eyes,
Shine thru the gloom and point me to the skies;
heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee -
In life, in death,
O Lord, abide with me!
Henry F. Lyte (1847)
To hear this beautiful hymn go to: http://youtu.be/Rw5TtwJFIKU
